Two years ago, the Maserati GranTurismo replaced the GranSport model. The standard 2010 Maserati GranTurismo comes equipped with a 405-horsepower 4.2-liter V-8, while the sportier GranTurismo S gets a 4.7-liter engine with 433 horsepower on tap. The GranTurismo Convertible also gets the more powerful 4.7-liter V-8. Standard across the GranTurismo range is a six-speed ZF automatic transmission. The 0-60 mph run now takes just 5.1 seconds in the GranTurismo, while the GranTurismo S gets there in 4.5 seconds. Top speeds are 177 mph and 183 mph, respectively.

Maserati’s new GranTurismo Convertible is a beautiful addition to the family of powerful sporting cars designed for the true enthusiast. The guidance of former Formula 1 racer Ivan Capelli is helpful in getting us out of the dense Roman traffic and into the countryside, where we find a delightful winding road with elevation changes, switchbacks and challenging corners to test the Convertible.

Beneath the broad sloping hood lies the excellent Maserati GranTurismo 4.7-liter V-8 engine boasting 440 bhp and 361 lb.-ft. f torque. Out on the open winding road, the Maserati GranTurismo Convertible really struts its stuff--with excellent handling, sharp acceleration, super braking feel and a level of confidence that makes driving this car a joy. The Maserati GranTurismo Convertible (called the GranCabrio in the home market) goes on sale in the U.S. this spring, priced at $139,700.